Ronde van Vlaanderen - WC - Race Overview

Emma Johansson continued her European podium streak to finish third in a four-up sprint at the Ronde van Vlaanderen World Cup. The Swede with strong form has now ridden herself onto the podium in each of the eight European races she has started. Loes Gunnewijk gave ORICA-AIS a second rider in the top ten when she slotted into eighth place, part of a chase group of five riders that had formed behind Johansson’s group.

Johansson attacked on the Oude Kwaremont to force a selection that included Marianne Vos (Rabo Women), Elisa Longo Borghini (Hitec Products UCK) and Ellen Van Dijk (Specialized-lululemon). The quartest had a distinct gap by the time they hit the Paterberg where Johnasson continued her attacks. Vos covered each attempt and went one to win the race. Van Dijk edged out Johansson for second.

“Obviously, I’m happy that I’m going well, but we race to win. It’s good to be third, but I would change all those other results and my podium streak to win the Flanders World Cup. We did what we could. I was feeling very good on the Kwaremont because I hadn’t done much work in the race up until the point. I was really strong on the hills all day. I wish I could have done more, but there’s only so much you can do with Marianne.” -Emma Johansson